Car Rental in the Philippines for Spanish Travelers

Traveling to the Philippines from Spain offers magnificent opportunities to explore stunning landscapes, bustling cities, and serene beaches. Renting a car can significantly enhance this experience but may raise several questions.

Do I need an international driving permit in the Philippines?
What insurance options should I consider?
What are the typical costs of car rentals?
Are there restrictions for one-way rentals?
How different are the driving rules compared to Spain?

This guide addresses these common concerns and provides valuable insights, helping Spanish travelers confidently and efficiently navigate the Philippine roads. Make sure to review the summarized points provided for a quick reference.

Can Spanish Citizens Drive in the Philippines?

Yes, Spanish travelers can legally drive in the Philippines with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• Original South Korea Driving Lisense (English version)
Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter. An English translation must be provided on the back of the driver's license.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa, Master, and AMEX.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be aged between 21 and 80. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver surcharge of PHP 560 (approximately US$ 9.61 per day) applies.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

Check Rates

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Discover a range of car rental options in the Philippines, suitable for every travel itinerary and preference. Choose from global chains for reliable service or local brands for unique offerings.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Thrifty
global
8.5
Locations:
80
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible rental terms
- Online booking discounts
- Loyalty rewards program
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
121
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Dollar
global
8.5
Locations:
63
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Easy online booking
- Great customer service
- Flexible rental options
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
77
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Extensive network across 140 countries
- Option for long-term rentals
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Loyalty program for frequent renters
Best for
Travelers looking for flexibility and a wide selection of vehicles
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
41
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Affordable rates
- Wide range of vehicles
- Avis Preferred loyalty program
- Convenient locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Keddy by Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
17
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Affordable rates
- Wide network of locations
- Flexible rental options
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

VIAJERO
local
8.5
Locations:
1
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Personalized service
- Wide range of vehicle types
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local adventures

Recommendations for Spanish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

You prefer a well-known brand with extensive coverage.
Require 24/7 customer support in English or Spanish.
Need a wide variety of vehicle types, from economy to luxury.
Plan to travel across multiple cities or regions in the Philippines.

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking to save money with competitive rates.
Staying primarily in urban areas or popular tourist destinations.
Interested in renting unique local vehicles.
Comfortable with limited customer support availability.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in PH
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most travelers prefer automatic for PH road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and automatic cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your ES insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Manila, Cebu, Davao
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Boracay, Palawan, Bohol

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

Check Rates

What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in the Philippines, but for peace of mind on your trip, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance policies can vary, and the coverage included in your rental may be minimal. Choosing the right protection can help you avoid unexpected expenses in case of an incident.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car in the event of an accident or collision.
€13-22/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects you financially if the rental vehicle is stolen.
€4-7/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Provides coverage for damages or injuries caused to other people or their property.
Usually Included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers accidental injuries to you or your passengers during the rental period.
€4-9/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Philippines. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$3.70 - $576.63

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$6.86 - $1,537.70

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in the Philippines

Smart booking strategies can help Spanish travelers visiting the Philippines save money on car rentals. Follow these practical tips to enjoy your trip without breaking the bank.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Plan and Book Ahead
Car rental rates in the Philippines are often lower when booked at least 3-4 weeks in advance. Avoid last-minute surcharges by securing your reservation early.
Save up to 20-30%
Compare Multiple Rental Agencies
Use trusted platforms or apps to compare prices from various car rental companies in the Philippines. Look for deals, discounts, and promotions.
Save up to 25%
Choose Cars Based on Your Needs
Avoid overspending on unnecessarily large or luxury vehicles. Compact and economy cars are often sufficient for local travel.
Save up to €10-15/day
Opt for a Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Select rental options that allow you to pick up and return the car with a full tank of fuel. This prevents additional refueling charges.
Save €15-25 on refueling fees
Review Insurance Options
Check if your travel insurance covers car rental. Declining extra insurance from the rental company can reduce costs significantly.
Save €10-20/day

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in the Philippines.

Hidden Fees
Be cautious about additional charges that may not be explicitly stated upfront.
- Extra charges for airport pickups or returns
- Additional fees for young drivers (under 21-25 years)
- Charges for optional vehicles upgrades or accessories
- Unforeseen taxes or service fees
- Late pickup or return penalties
Insurance Coverage
Understand the insurance policies and what is covered to avoid unexpected costs.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection
- Liability coverage for third-party damages
- Check if your own travel insurance covers rental vehicles
- Credit card insurance perks
- Local insurance requirements in the Philippines
Driving Conditions
Familiarize yourself with the local driving standards and road conditions.
- Left-hand driving in the Philippines
- Traffic congestion in urban areas
- Road quality in rural regions
- Frequent toll roads and payment methods
- Local traffic laws and enforcement
Vehicle Types
Choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs and the local terrain.
- Compact cars for city driving
- SUVs or 4x4s for rugged areas
- Vehicles with automatic or manual transmission
- Fuel efficiency considerations
- Availability of air conditioning
Booking and Cancellation Policies
Understand the terms before confirming your reservation.
- Advance booking discounts
- Flexibility in date changes
- Cancellation fees or policies
- Minimum rental period requirements
- Deposit and refund policies
Pickup and Return Locations
Verify the logistics of getting to and from rental locations.
- Operating hours of rental offices
- Availability of after-hours drop-off
- Locations close to your travel accommodations
- Additional fees for one-way rentals
- Pickup at airports or city centers

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Differences and Similarities Between Spanish and Philippine Traffic Rules

Spanish and Philippine traffic rules differ in terms of road signage languages, alcohol tolerance, and pedestrian priorities, while sharing some common rules like seatbelt usage and mobile phone restrictions.

Right Turn on Red
PH
Right turn on red is generally not allowed.
ES
Right turn on red is generally not allowed.
Speed Limits
PH
Urban areas: 60 km/h; Highways: 100 km/h.
ES
Urban areas: 50 km/h; Highways: 120 km/h.
Pedestrian Crossings
PH
Pedestrians have the right of way at designated crossings.
ES
Pedestrians have the right of way at designated crossings, with stricter enforcement.
Blood Alcohol Limit
PH
0.05% BAC for general drivers, stricter for professional drivers.
ES
0.03% BAC for general drivers, stricter for professional drivers.
Mobile Phone Use
PH
Hands-free devices allowed; strict penalties for violations.
ES
Hands-free devices allowed; strict penalties for violations.
Seatbelt Laws
PH
Mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle.
ES
Mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle.
Remember
- • Familiarize yourself with local traffic signs which may differ in design and language.
- • Carry your international driving permit along with your Spanish driving license.
- • Adhere to local speed limits as they might vary from Spain.
- • Be cautious of local road conditions and weather changes.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Spain renting a car in Philippines

Can I rent a car in the Philippines with my Spanish driving licence?

Yes. The Spanish driving licence, as it uses the Roman alphabet, is legally valid for driving in the Philippines for up to 90 days from the date of arrival. However, it is recommended that you check the question about the International Driving Permit.

Is the International Driving Permit (IDP) absolutely necessary if my Spanish licence is valid?

It is not mandatory during the first 90 days, but it is highly recommended. The IDP serves as a translation and can help avoid misunderstandings with local authorities or the car rental company.

What other documents do I need to present at the rental counter?

You will need your valid passport with entry stamp, your Spanish driving licence, and a primary credit card (Visa or Mastercard) in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.

Are there age restrictions for renting a car? Is it similar to Spain?

Yes. The minimum age is usually 21, but most companies apply a surcharge for drivers under 25. For premium cars, the minimum age can be 25 or even 30. Some companies also have maximum age limits.

How far in advance should I book the rental car?

It is recommended to book at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, especially in peak seasons (Christmas, Easter and summer). This way you secure better prices and availability.

What is the best platform to compare prices and make a booking?

The recommended platform is QEEQ, where you can compare offers from local and international suppliers in the Philippines and manage your booking easily.

What type of car is more advisable for the Philippines: a small one as in Europe or an SUV?

In the Philippines, an SUV or crossover is usually a better option due to the higher ground clearance, which is useful on bumpy roads, in floods or on unpaved roads. For cities, a sedan is sufficient.

Should I choose manual or automatic transmission? I’m used to manual in Spain.

An automatic car is strongly recommended, especially in heavily congested cities like Manila or Cebu. Heavy traffic makes using the clutch very tiring.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle?

It is not necessary unless you are going to remote mountainous areas or crossing rivers. For most tourist destinations, a 2WD SUV or crossover is sufficient.

Can I book a specific car model?

You usually book a category (such as ‘Compact’ or ‘Mid-size SUV’), not a specific model. You will receive the booked model or a similar one.

What is usually included in the basic rental price?

It includes the car rental, compulsory third-party liability insurance (TPL) and unlimited mileage. It usually does not include fuel, additional insurance or optional extras.

What is the compulsory third-party liability insurance (TPL)?

TPL covers injuries or deaths of third parties in an accident caused by you. It does not cover damage to the rental car or to third-party property. It is always included in the price.

What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)? Is it like comprehensive insurance in Spain?

CDW is not an insurance but a waiver that limits your financial liability for damage to the rental car. It is similar to comprehensive insurance with an excess in Spain.

Should I buy Super CDW or other extra insurance?

It is optional. Premium insurance reduces the excess to zero and gives you peace of mind for any covered damage. It is more expensive but avoids disputes over minor damage.

Can I use the insurance from my Spanish credit card?

Possibly, but you must confirm this with your card issuer and request written details. If you use this insurance, you will have to decline the company’s CDW and a higher deposit will be blocked on your card.

How much is the security deposit usually and how is it paid?

The deposit ranges from 5,000 to 20,000 PHP (approx. €85–340), depending on the car and insurance. It is a pre-authorisation on your credit card and is released after the car is returned without incidents.

Are there common hidden charges in car rentals?

Watch out for airport surcharges, young driver fees, additional driver charges, refuelling charges if you don’t return the car full, and one way rental fees. Read the rental agreement before signing.

What is the usual fuel policy?

It is usually ‘full to full’: you receive the car with a full tank and must return it the same way. If you don’t, you will be charged for fuel at a much higher price.

Are there extra charges for one way rentals?

Yes, returning the car in another city usually involves a significant surcharge and not all companies allow it. It is usually restricted to the same island.

What is the car pickup process at the airport like?

The main companies have counters in the arrivals terminal. Others offer a meet-and-greet service or require you to take a shuttle to their offices. Confirm the procedure in your booking.

What happens if my flight is delayed?

You must provide your flight number when booking so the company can track your arrival and hold the car for you. If you don’t and arrive late, they may cancel your booking.

Can I add an additional driver? What are the requirements?

Yes, you can add drivers for a daily fee. They must be present at pickup and present the same documents as the main driver.

What should I check in the car before leaving?

Check for pre-existing damage, tyre condition and pressure (including the spare), and the operation of lights, wipers, horn, air conditioning, and that the jack and tools are present.

How do I document the car’s pre-existing damage?

Record a detailed video from all angles, highlighting scratches or dents. Do the same inside. Make sure the agent notes all damage in the rental agreement before you sign.

What documents must the rental company give me?

You should receive the rental agreement, a copy of the official receipt and the vehicle registration certificate (OR/CR), plus the 24/7 emergency number. Always keep these documents in the car.

Do people drive on the left or on the right in the Philippines?

People drive on the right and cars have the steering wheel on the left, the same as in Spain and continental Europe.

What are the general speed limits?

Typically: 100 km/h on expressways, 80 km/h on open roads and 30–40 km/h in cities or towns. Signage can be scarce; follow the flow of traffic.

Are there special local traffic rules like Madrid Central?

Yes, the most important is the ‘Number Coding Scheme’ in Manila, which restricts driving on certain days according to the licence plate. Check whether your car is ‘coded’ for a specific day.

What are Jeepneys and tricycles and how should I drive near them?

Jeepneys are colourful minibuses and tricycles are motorbikes with sidecars. They stop and turn unpredictably. Keep your distance, be patient and don’t tailgate them.

How is the horn used? Is it considered rude as in Europe?

No. In the Philippines, a light tap on the horn is a friendly signal meaning ‘I’m here’, ‘I’m going to overtake’ or ‘attention’. It is common and not considered aggressive.

What is the difference between driving in Manila and in the provinces?

Manila has dense, chaotic traffic. In the provinces, traffic is more relaxed but there are more tricycles, motorbikes, pedestrians and animals. Roads may be in worse condition outside expressways.

How do roundabouts work?

Vehicles already in the roundabout have right of way, as in Spain. However, entry can be chaotic; drive defensively.

What are the drink-driving laws?

There are strict laws with a low blood alcohol limit (0.05%). Penalties are severe, including heavy fines and imprisonment. Do not drink and drive.

Are child car seats mandatory?

They are required by law, but enforcement in rental cars is inconsistent. Request one when booking if you are travelling with children for their safety.

What are the general road conditions like?

Main expressways are excellent, comparable to Europe. National roads are usually paved but can be narrow and bumpy. In rural areas there may be dirt roads or concrete roads in poor condition.

What is better for navigation: Google Maps or Waze?

Waze is preferable in urban areas thanks to its real-time traffic data. In rural areas both work similarly.

How are tolls paid on expressways? Is it cash or electronic?

Most expressways use an electronic RFID system such as Easytrip (north) and Autosweep (south). Cash payments are being phased out.

Can I get an RFID tag for the rental car?

You must ask the rental company. Most already equip their cars with Easytrip and Autosweep. Confirm that the car has sufficient balance before setting off.

Is it easy to find parking in cities?

There are paid car parks in shopping malls and business districts. Street parking can be chaotic and difficult. Use official car parks to avoid problems.

Is it easy to find petrol stations?

Yes. Brands like Shell, Petron and Caltex are everywhere, even in small towns. On expressways they are usually open 24 hours.

Can I take the rental car on a ferry (RoRo) to another island?

You need explicit permission from the rental company. Many contracts prohibit this and the insurance does not cover the car at sea. If you do it without permission, you could be liable for the full value of the car.

What should I do if I am stopped by the police or a traffic officer?

Stay calm, pull over safely and have your documents ready. If you are fined, ask for the official receipt and do not pay in cash unless that is the formal procedure.

What is the procedure in case of a minor accident?

Do not admit fault. Take photos, write down the other driver’s details and call the rental company’s emergency number for instructions.

What should I do in case of a serious accident or breakdown?

Prioritise safety and call the company’s 24/7 assistance number immediately. They will guide you and may arrange the police and a tow truck.

Is it safe to drive at night?

On expressways and in cities it is generally safe. Avoid driving at night in rural areas due to poorly lit roads and possible unseen obstacles.

Are there common scams in car rentals?

The most common is being charged for pre-existing damage. Therefore, thoroughly inspect and document the car at pickup. Avoid renting from strangers or ‘helpers’ on the street.

What personal safety precautions should I take?

Keep doors and windows closed, do not leave valuables in sight and park in well-lit areas. Rental car theft is rare, but petty theft can occur.

What is the car return process like?

Take the car to the agreed location; an employee will inspect it and check the fuel level. If everything is in order, you sign the report and the deposit is released. Allow at least 30 minutes for this process.

What happens if I return the car late?

There is usually a 30–60 minute grace period. If you are later than that, you may be charged an extra day at a possibly higher rate. If you expect to be late, inform the company as soon as possible.

Is it better to rent a car with a driver?

For many visitors, yes. It is affordable, removes the stress of driving and parking, and lets you enjoy the trip. It is a good option, especially for the first few days or for getting around Manila.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in the Philippines for Spanish Travelers

Traveling to the Philippines from Spain offers magnificent opportunities to explore stunning landscapes, bustling cities, and serene beaches. Renting a car can significantly enhance this experience but may raise several questions.

Can Spanish Citizens Drive in the Philippines?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Spanish Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in the Philippines

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Differences and Similarities Between Spanish and Philippine Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations